When Allen Drury's 'Advise and Consent' hit bookshelves in August 1959, it immediately ignited a firestorm of discussion and captivated the American public. This monumental political novel was not just a book; it was a cultural phenomenon, offering an unprecedented, fly-on-the-wall perspective into the Machiavellian world of Washington D.C. Its launch coincided with heightened Cold War anxieties and a burgeoning interest in the inner workings of government, making its intricate portrayal of Senate politics feel incredibly timely and relevant. Readers flocked to it, eager to uncover the supposed 'secrets' of power, compromise, and moral ambiguity that Drury, a former Senate correspondent, so vividly brought to life. It quickly ascended bestseller lists, cementing its place as an essential read of its era.
What it is
'Advise and Consent' is a sprawling, multi-character political drama centered on the U.S. Senate's contentious confirmation hearings for Robert Leffingwell, the President's controversial nominee for Secretary of State. The narrative thrusts readers into a high-stakes battleground where idealism clashes with pragmatism, and personal integrity is tested against political expediency. Key characters include the principled but embattled Senator Brigham Anderson, the shrewd Southern Senator Seabright Cooley, and the President himself, whose determination to secure Leffingwell's appointment drives much of the conflict. Drury masterfully weaves together subplots involving blackmail, smear campaigns, and deep-seated ideological divides, painting a stark picture of the compromises and personal costs inherent in the pursuit and exercise of power. The novel's strength lies in its meticulous detail and its exploration of the human element within the political machine.
How it came to be
Allen Drury’s 'Advise and Consent' was born from his nearly two decades of experience as a journalist covering the U.S. Senate. Having witnessed countless confirmation battles and the intricate dance of power firsthand, Drury felt compelled to write a novel that captured the authentic, often ruthless, essence of Washington politics. He began writing in 1956, drawing heavily from his observations and experiences. The novel was a painstaking effort, requiring him to craft a labyrinthine plot and develop a large cast of convincing characters, many of whom were speculated to be thinly veiled portrayals of real political figures. After completing the manuscript, Drury secured a publishing deal with Doubleday, who recognized the immense potential in his detailed and timely narrative, setting the stage for its explosive debut.
How many it sold
The commercial success of 'Advise and Consent' was nothing short of meteoric. Published in August 1959, the novel sold an impressive 20,000 copies in its first week alone and quickly surpassed 100,000 copies by mid-October. It soared to the top of the New York Times Bestseller list, holding the number one spot for 10 consecutive weeks and remaining on the list for a remarkable 102 weeks. Publishers Weekly recognized it as the #4 fiction bestseller of 1959, a testament to its widespread appeal. Its critical acclaim was also significant; the book was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1960, further solidifying its literary standing and boosting its already phenomenal sales figures. It was a massive financial and critical triumph for both Drury and Doubleday.
Why it resonated
'Advise and Consent' resonated deeply with the American public because it offered a thrilling, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the often-opaque world of Washington politics, a world many citizens found fascinating yet inaccessible. At a time of intense Cold War anxieties and political polarization, Drury's narrative, with its themes of national security, ideological conflict, and the personal sacrifices demanded by public service, struck a powerful chord. Readers connected with the moral dilemmas faced by its characters, seeing reflections of their own societal concerns about integrity and power. While some critics debated its political leanings—often perceived as anti-liberal—most acknowledged its compelling storytelling and vivid characterizations. The novel tapped into a collective curiosity about the powerful individuals shaping the nation's destiny, becoming an indispensable part of the national conversation.
Impact today
The legacy of 'Advise and Consent' endures as a seminal work of American political fiction. It not only defined a genre but also set a high bar for subsequent authors attempting to capture the complexities of Washington D.C. Its success paved the way for a series of sequels, though none achieved the same critical or commercial heights. The novel was famously adapted into a critically acclaimed film in 1962, directed by Otto Preminger and starring Henry Fonda and Charles Laughton, which further cemented its place in popular culture. Today, it remains a classic, frequently cited and studied for its intricate portrayal of the American political system, its exploration of ethical quandaries, and its enduring relevance in understanding the dynamics of power. It continues to influence political thrillers and dramas, solidifying its position as a cornerstone of modern literary history.
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